Foley’s Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market opened Thanksgiving week with a full day of holiday shopping and community service that drew steady crowds and put more than 100 food boxes into the hands of South Baldwin County residents.

The market launched its Special PreThanksgiving Market on Tuesday, Nov. 25, giving shoppers an early chance to secure pies, breads and turkeys. Produce vendors offered potatoes fit for mashing and sweet potatoes destined for candied dishes. Artisans lined the facility with early Christmas gifts, while plant sellers supplied last-minute centerpiece options. Shoppers moved through the grounds from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., picking up specialty items or completing regular weekly shopping since the market will be closed Saturday, Nov. 29.

Once the stalls closed, staff and volunteers shifted to the next task. They had spent two days assembling more than 100 boxes with eggs, bread, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, onions, bell peppers, rice and other staples. Items were donated or purchased with contributions collected during the market’s recent food drive, much of it supplied by the market’s own growers and makers.

“Feeding our community is more than just a mission statement,” said Market Manager Alescia Forland. “It’s in our blood. For many of us it’s what we’ve dedicated our lives to- growing or cultivating things to feed our neighbors. Our market and our vendors want to support the community that has unwaveringly supported us for more than ten years. No one should ever go hungry.”

Food box distribution ran from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., extending the market’s holiday outreach efforts at a time when demand traditionally rises. Organizers said the event aligns with the market’s long history of partnering with local farms and fishers to address food insecurity.

The market will reopen Saturday, Dec. 6, for regular hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Staff and vendors will also begin preparations for the annual Christmas Night Market on Dec. 11. The evening event will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with holiday treats from bakers, gifts from artisans, carolers roaming the facility and a visit from Santa to cap the seasonal celebration.